The Arizona Cardinals recently received troubling news: starting cornerback Sean Murphy-Bunting will reportedly miss the 2025 season. As a result, Arizona is now in the market for a new starting cornerback.
While the team drafted Will Johnson and Denzel Burke and has last year’s rookie Max Melton returning after a promising debut, the group lacks veteran experience, so the front office will likely explore options to bring in a proven presence.
Free agency remains one possibility, but Murphy-Bunting was expected to serve as their top cornerback, and no available veteran will perfectly fill that void. This reality could force the Cardinals to consider a more aggressive move.
After finishing just two games shy of a playoff berth last season, Arizona boasts a retooled defense and explosive offense, and a move like this could help elevate them into postseason contention.
A dependable No. 1 corner is critical in a division stacked with talent like Davante Adams, Puka Nacua, Jaxon Smith-Njigba, and Brandon Aiyuk. Fortunately for Arizona, one of the NFL’s best veteran corners may be on the trading block, Jalen Ramsey of the Miami Dolphins. A trade makes sense for both sides.
A potential deal might include Ramsey and a third-round pick going to the Cardinals in exchange for wide receiver Michael Wilson and cornerback Sterling Thomas V. While it may not generate headlines on debate shows, the trade would significantly strengthen Miami’s chances next season.
Ramsey gives Arizona an immediate upgrade in both talent and leadership. He can lock down top receivers and mentor the team’s young defensive backs, including Johnson, Burke, and Melton. The added third-rounder also aligns with Arizona’s timeline, as the franchise appears to be one or two years away from serious contention.
Miami would part with a player who's become increasingly expendable but productive. Ramsey intercepted a pass intended for Buffalo rookie Keon Coleman in Week 9 last season, showing he’s still got it. In return, the Dolphins would receive two rising talents.
A third-year receiver, Wilson hauled 47 passes for 548 yards and four touchdowns in 2024. He could thrive in Mike McDaniel’s system with consistent improvement each season. Lining up across from Tyreek Hill and in formations with Jaylen Waddle, Wilson might be poised for a breakout campaign.
Thomas is another ascending player. He’s coming off a career-best season with 47 tackles, six pass breakups, and a forced fumble. His steady development makes him a potential sleeper in 2025 and a much-needed addition to Miami’s inconsistent secondary.
Arizona has the wide receiver depth to absorb Wilson’s departure. Marvin Harrison Jr. is expected to leap in his second year, Zay Jones brings veteran experience, and Xavier Weaver, a second-year receiver from Colorado, is fully healthy after missing most of 2024.
For Miami, this move addresses two needs, cornerback depth and wide receiver production, by moving a player who may no longer be in the team's long-term plans. Ramsey’s time in South Florida appears to be winding down, and this deal could be a win-win. If the Dolphins are serious about retooling for another playoff push, now is the time to call the Cardinals and make it happen.
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